Alton schools get Illinois American grant

Illinois American Water announced that five watershed initiatives across the state will receive funding through the company’s 2016 Environmental Grant Program.

The recipients will receive a share of grant funds totaling $15,000 for projects that improve, restore or protect watersheds.

This announcement coincided with Earth Day, April 22, to remind consumers of the need to protect resources for future generations.

“At Illinois American Water, Earth Day is every day,” said Bruce Hauk, president of Illinois American Water. “Our team works hard to not only provide water for life, but for our communities to thrive.”

The Alton School District’s Rock Spring Park Watershed Restoration Project will receive a $4,000 grant. A bio-retention system and rain garden will be constructed in an outdoor classroom area of Rock Spring Park to remediate stormwater accumulation and resulting stagnant pools. Middle school students will learn about design, construction and maintenance. This stormwater capture technique will provide education to students and the public about best management practices as well as beautification.

Customers can make a difference by getting involved in these projects as well as using water wisely. Customers are reminded they can help protect resources through the following actions:

• Be conscious of daily water use and take the necessary steps to be water smart.

• Be sure that leaking pipes and faucets — indoors and outdoors — are repaired.

• Take care in garden, lawn, garage or other home product use and ensure they do not affect groundwater.

• Dispose of chemicals or other potentially harmful products properly by not pouring them directly into home drains, the sewer, street drains or the lawn.

• Learn more about water through the annual local water quality reports. American Water customers can access their report by ZIP code on the company’s website at illinoisamwater.com under the Water Quality tab.